President Bola Tinubu has ordered an intensified crackdown on cybercriminals and transnational car theft syndicates operating within Nigeria.
In a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu instructed security and law enforcement agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), to increase efforts in tracking and prosecuting individuals involved in these illegal activities.
Tinubu stressed the importance of seizing criminal proceeds as a key strategy in combating these crimes.
EFCC Hands Over $180,300 and 53 Stolen Vehicles to Canada
This directive comes on the heels of the EFCC’s recent handover of $180,300 and 53 vehicles to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). The recovered assets, which belonged to two Canadian victims of cybercrimes committed by Nigerian nationals, were praised by President Tinubu as evidence of successful collaboration between the EFCC and international partners, such as the RCMP.
The President expressed concern over Nigeria’s role as a hub for transnational criminal activities, particularly the export of stolen vehicles. He commended the EFCC’s recovery of the vehicles and funds, calling it a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to fighting organized crime.
Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Fight Financial Crimes
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to preventing Nigeria from becoming a destination for illicit wealth and stolen assets. He directed relevant agencies, especially anti-corruption bodies, to ensure that recovered assets are properly preserved in line with existing laws and international agreements.
Key Details
Earlier, the EFCC disclosed that its Executive Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, handed over $180,300 and 53 stolen vehicles to the RCMP. The funds included $164,000 belonging to Elena Bogomas and $16,300 for Sandra Butler, both victims of cyber fraud. The vehicles were stolen in Canada, shipped to Nigeria, and dispersed across multiple locations.
In July, the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, presided over by Justice Deinde I. Dipeolu, ordered the final forfeiture of 20 stolen cars recovered from Canada to the Nigerian government.
